Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
[5,6] that allow text-based digital content linking but do not support image
and position-based links. Other widely exploited methods for linking digital
content to printed documents are based on barcodes [7,8]. Indeed, in Japan
many cell phone models are equipped with cameras and QR-code [9] recog-
nition software that allows instant online access to bar-coded URL addresses
incorporated in printed documents as shown in Figure 9.1. QR-codes as all
other barcodes, however, require fairly large dedicated space and thus cause
significant visual disturbance.
More advanced approaches based on digital watermarking [10] and carpet
encoding [11,12] that seamlessly blended with the printed document con-
tent are also available. For example, if the CLUSPI [12,13] carpet encoding
method is employed, the visual appearance of a digitally enhanced news-
paper changes so little that readers would hardly feel any difference. The
publishers would, therefore be free to adopt and gradually introduce dif-
ferent digitally enhanced printed materials creating a foundation for new
digital information services linked to the published content. In addition,
readers would also need supportive devices with optical input appropriate
for extracting the codes embedded into the digitally enhanced printed mate-
rials and for providing multimedia feedback.
We use the acronym newsputer [14] (an abbreviation from newspaper and
computer) to denote the augmented functionality and wealth of services that
become possible with such digitally enhanced printed media. The newsputer
concept is about a pervasive environment where:
1. Diversity of print publications would carry embedded digital
enhancements in the form of barcodes, digital watermarks, carpet
codes, and so on.
Figure 9.1
Printed materials with embedded QR-codes.
